Abstract: ORIENTATION AND RESEARCH PURPOSE: Many theories in organisational leadership/management exist, but the study of mental models within business remains an area hungry for further research. Mental models not only give meaning to the environment, but also function as a frame of reference for action and interpretation of the social world in which we live. The aim of this paper was to study the mental models of South African industry leaders (CEOs) within the current era of sustainability; explore their mental models as they lead within the 21st century. MOTIVATION OF THE STUDY: Business is faced with increased challenges in order to survive or even thrive in these times of uncertainty. Exploring mental models could assist in establishing where business is currently positioned and what drives their thinking. RESEARCH DESIGN, APPROACH, AND METHOD: The approach adopted involved conducting qualitative interviews with seven CEOs of different business sectors within South Africa, and one member of the Planning Commission in the Presidency; including literature review. KEY FINDINGS: Business considered the current times as challenging: Speed, complexity and paradox have become the norm. Sustainability has become the fundamental principle. Within South Africa, the challenge is worsened by the poor relations between business, government and labour, given the apartheid legacy. Leaders were calling for better relations especially in light of the implementation of the National Development Plan, which was considered vital in shaping our economy in the global era. CONTRIBUTIONS/VALUE-ADD: This study envisaged to bring forth the voice of business regarding their challenges, and to explore their opinions of the road ahead in South Africa in the 21st century. In understanding the current mental models in business, we can comprehend their actions and reactions to our social world.